The Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (Hawks) has secured a significant victory against cross-border crime after a Mozambican national was sentenced to 10 years' direct imprisonment for attempting to import a military-grade explosive device into South Africa.
Antonio Charles Mugabe (26) appeared in the Boschfontein Regional Court on Monday, 26 October 2026, where he pleaded guilty to three charges: possession of an explosive device, transportation of an explosive device, and importation of an explosive device into the Republic of South Africa.
How the explosive was intercepted
The case stems from an incident on 23 August 2026 at the Lebombo Port of Entry in Komatipoort. During a joint border security operation, members of the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the South African Revenue Service (SARS) were conducting routine screening of travellers entering from Mozambique when they detected a suspicious object concealed inside Mugabe's travel bag. A subsequent search uncovered a 60mm mortar bomb – a military-grade explosive that posed a serious threat to public safety and national security. Mugabe was arrested on the spot.
Investigation and court proceedings
The matter was investigated by the Hawks' Serious Organised Crime Investigation unit in Nelspruit. After a thorough probe, the case was transferred from the Komatipoort Magistrates' Court to the Boschfontein Regional Court.
Upon pleading guilty, Mugabe was convicted and sentenced to 10 years' direct imprisonment.
Hawks leadership welcomes the outcome
Major General Nico Gerber, Provincial Head of the Hawks in Mpumalanga, welcomed the outcome and praised the coordinated efforts of law enforcement agencies that intercepted the device before it could reach South African communities.
“This sentence is a decisive victory for justice and a stern warning to anyone who seeks to use our borders as conduits for dangerous weapons and explosives. The interception of a military-grade mortar bomb at one of our country's busiest ports of entry prevented a potentially devastating threat from entering our communities. Those who engage in the illegal movement of explosives must know that the Hawks, together with our law enforcement and prosecution partners, will relentlessly pursue them, dismantle their criminal activities and ensure that they face the full might of the law. Border security remains a priority, and we will continue to act decisively against individuals whose actions endanger the safety, security and stability of South Africa,” said Major General Gerber.
He also commended the vigilance and professionalism of SAPS and SARS officials at the border, as well as the dedication of the investigators and prosecutors whose collaborative efforts led to the successful conviction.